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Alpha Decay quiz

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  • What is an alpha particle composed of?
    An alpha particle consists of 2 protons and 2 neutrons.
  • How is an alpha particle represented in nuclear equations?
    It is represented as 4/2 He, indicating an atomic mass of 4 and atomic number of 2.
  • Which element on the periodic table has the same atomic mass and atomic number as an alpha particle?
    Helium has an atomic mass of 4 and atomic number of 2, the same as an alpha particle.
  • What happens to polonium-210 when it undergoes alpha decay?
    Polonium-210 emits an alpha particle and transforms into lead-206.
  • Why must nuclear reactions be balanced?
    Both atomic mass and atomic numbers must be equal on both sides of the reaction.
  • What is the atomic mass and atomic number of polonium-210?
    Polonium-210 has an atomic mass of 210 and an atomic number of 84.
  • After alpha decay, what is the atomic mass and atomic number of the new element formed from polonium-210?
    The new element, lead-206, has an atomic mass of 206 and atomic number of 82.
  • What is the largest type of radioactive particle?
    The alpha particle is the largest among radioactive particles.
  • Why are alpha particles considered highly damaging to biological cells?
    They have the highest ionizing power, which can severely damage biological cells if internal exposure occurs.
  • Why is internal exposure to alpha particles rare?
    Alpha particles have the lowest penetrating power and are easily blocked by skin, clothing, or air.
  • What provides protection against alpha particles?
    Clothing and even air can protect against alpha particles due to their low penetrating power.
  • How can alpha particles enter the human body?
    Alpha particles can enter the body through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or exposure in a nuclear facility.
  • What is the fate of the alpha particle emitted during alpha decay?
    The alpha particle is emitted as waste and is not part of the new element formed.
  • What is the relationship between isotopes and alpha decay?
    Alpha decay can occur with different isotopes, which have the same atomic number but different atomic masses.
  • What must be true for atomic mass and atomic number in a balanced nuclear reaction?
    The sum of atomic masses and atomic numbers must be equal on both sides of the equation.